Oooop!

I accidentally celebrated my birthday a day early. You see, technically it was the 21st in New Zealand yesterday. But, as Aimee pointed out in a Happy Birthday Voicemail, I was born in AMERICA. I don't actually become a year older in chronological time until today. So now I'm left with the awesome responsibility of celebration it all over again! Drat!

The first celebration: grilled cheese, tomato soup, and The Jazz Singer. Last night we all went out to Eric and Lucas's house in Breaker Bay. They're both out of town, but they have the most incredible movie watching set up, and were kind enough to let us make use of it while they're away (in exchange for 1 chicken burrito and some cheddar cheese - a fair trade).

Christopher brought back two blocks of authentic Tillamook cheddar (sharp and mild) and two giant cans of condensed Campbell's Tomato Soup, from a U.S. Ralph's, in his suitcase last week. These were prepared side-by-side with the New Zealand versions, for science. I'm not exactly sure what's "wrong" with the New Zealand versions, but something is. Totally wrong flavor. And the cheddar cheese here isn't even colored orange, as it should be. So sad.

Also, there was sparkling wine from our South Island trip (more on that later), and The Jazz Singer on the largest screen I've ever seen it on. As always, Neil was amazing. I made lyric sheets for those new to Mr. Diamond's finest piece of theatrical work, so everyone could sing along. As usual, Francisco and I sang at the top of our lungs, while the rest laughed at us. Tony! I missed you! We'll have to have a special screening next time you're around this neck of the woods.

Thanks to everyone who made my fake-birthday so great. Joe was especially fantastic, bravely weathering the dishes while missing out on singing with Neil. What a trooper. So brave. So giving. :D

Okay, now what should I do celebrate my birthday TODAY?!